Football History

The 1923 NFL season marked a pivotal moment in the league's nascent history, showcasing the growing popularity of professional football and the rise of dominant teams like the Canton Bulldogs. While the league was still relatively young and evolving, the '23 season solidified the Bulldogs' place as a powerhouse and offered a glimpse into the future of the sport.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

The Canton Bulldogs, led by the legendary player and coach Guy Chamberlin, entered the 1923 season as defending champions. They were a team stacked with talent, boasting a roster of seasoned veterans and emerging stars. Chamberlin's leadership was instrumental to their success, instilling a winning mentality and fostering a cohesive team dynamic. Their style of play was characterized by a tough, physical brand of football, relying on a strong running game and a tenacious defense. This approach proved highly effective in the relatively rough-and-tumble era of early professional football.

The Bulldogs' dominance in 1923 was undeniable. They steamrolled through the regular season, compiling an impressive 11-1-1 record. Their sole loss was a narrow defeat, and the tie game could easily have been a victory. This near-perfect record underscored their superiority over the rest of the league. They consistently overpowered their opponents, showcasing their superior talent and coaching. Their victories were often decisive, leaving little doubt about their standing as the league's premier team.

-NFL standings 1923

Franchise Name W L T PCT PF PA STK

Canton Bulldogs 11 0 1 1.000 246 19 W5
Chicago Bears 9 2 1 .818 123 35 W1
Green Bay Packers 7 2 1 .778 85 34 W5
Milwaukee Badgers 7 2 3 .778 100 49 W1
Cleveland Indians 3 1 3 .750 52 49 L1
Chicago Cardinals 8 4 0 .667 161 56 L1
Duluth Kelleys 4 3 0 .571 35 33 L3
Buffalo All-Americans 5 4 3 .556 94 43 L1
Columbus Tigers 5 4 1 .556 119 35 L1
Toledo Maroons 3 3 2 .500 35 66 L1
Racine Legion 4 4 2 .500 86 76 W1
Rock Island Independents 2 3 3 .400 84 62 L1
Minneapolis Marines 2 5 2 .286 48 81 L1
St. Louis All-Stars 1 4 2 .200 25 74 L1
Hammond Pros 1 5 1 .167 14 59 L4
Akron Pros 1 6 0 .143 25 74 W1
Dayton Triangles 1 6 1 .143 16 95 L2
Oorang Indians 1 10 0 .091 50 257 W1
Louisville Brecks 0 3 0 .000 0 90 L3
Rochester Jeffersons 0 4 0 .000 6 141 L4

While the Bulldogs were the clear frontrunners, the 1923 season also saw other teams vying for contention. Teams like the Cleveland Indians and the Green Bay Packers, though not as dominant as Canton, displayed flashes of brilliance and hinted at the growing competitiveness of the league. These teams and others contributed to the overall narrative of the season, showcasing the increasing talent pool and the growing fan interest in professional football.

Beyond the wins and losses, the 1923 season was significant for the development of the NFL itself. The league was still in its formative years, grappling with standardization issues, player contracts, and overall organization. However, the success of teams like the Canton Bulldogs helped solidify the league's credibility and attract more fans. The growing media coverage of the games also contributed to the increasing popularity of professional football, laying the foundation for its future growth.

The Canton Bulldogs' 1923 season is a testament to their exceptional talent and coaching. Their dominance on the field earned them a championship and contributed to the NFL's overall growth and development. The season was a crucial stepping stone in the league's journey to becoming the dominant force in American sports today. The legacy of the 1923 Canton Bulldogs and their championship season continues to resonate within the history of professional football, reminding us of the sport’s rich and evolving past.

1923 Canton Bulldogs season. (2025, January 27). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1923_Canton_Bulldogs_season

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The 1937 Washington Redskins, a team that had recently relocated from Boston, etched their name into NFL history by capturing the league championship. This feat solidified their arrival as a force to be reckoned with. 1 Led by the astute coaching of Ray Flaherty and the dynamic quarterbacking of Sammy Baugh, the Redskins displayed a potent blend of offensive innovation and defensive tenacity.

-Podcast and Video Episode

Our guest expert is Washington football historian and author Mike Richman. Find Mike's books at: mikerichmanjournalist.com

The podcast episode unfolds the exhilarating narrative surrounding the 1937 NFL Championship, a pivotal moment for the Washington Redskins in their inaugural season in the nation’s capital. With insightful commentary from Mike Richmond, a prominent historian of the Redskins franchise, the discussion intricately examines the circumstances leading up to this historic match against the Chicago Bears. The episode elucidates the significance of the Redskins’ relocation from Boston, culminating in their triumphant achievement of securing a championship title in their debut year in Washington, D.C. Richmond articulates the key players who shaped the season, particularly the legendary Sammy Baugh, whose prowess as a quarterback heralded a transformative era in the NFL, transitioning the game from a predominantly run-based strategy to one that embraced the art of passing.
As the narrative progresses, the episode delves into the championship game itself, held at the iconic Wrigley Field amidst frigid temperatures and an icy playing surface that tested the mettle of both teams. Richmond's vivid recounting of the players' experiences on the field paints a stark picture of the brutality and competitiveness of the game, characterized by fierce tackles and strategic maneuvers. The hosts provide a detailed analysis of key plays and turning points that defined the match, culminating in the Redskins’ victory over the Bears, which not only solidified their place in NFL history but also served as a testament to their resilience and determination.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the broader implications of this championship victory, as the episode contextualizes it within the rich tapestry of American football history. Through expert insights and engaging storytelling, the podcast invites fans to appreciate the heritage of the sport and the lasting impact of the players who have contributed to its legacy.


Baugh, a rookie sensation, revolutionized the quarterback position with his accurate passing and strategic play. His presence immediately elevated the Redskins' offense, providing a crucial spark that propelled them to victory. The team's offensive prowess was further bolstered by the running game, which provided a vital balance, although not as flashy as Baugh's passing.

-1937 Season and NFL Title Game

Defensively, the Redskins were a formidable unit, characterized by their disciplined play and ability to stifle opposing offenses. Their cohesive teamwork and strategic execution allowed them to control games and limit scoring opportunities. This defensive strength proved essential in their championship run, allowing them to overcome formidable opponents.

The Washington club had recently relocated from Boston, and what a way for owner George Preston Marshall to introduce his franchise to a new town.

The 1937 championship game against the Chicago Bears, a rematch of the previous year's title clash, was a testament to the Redskins' resilience and determination. They avenged their earlier loss, showcasing their growth and development as a team. The victory secured the championship and marked a significant milestone in the franchise's history, establishing them as a dominant force in the NFL.

The 1937 Redskins' championship season was a watershed moment, demonstrating the impact of innovative coaching, exceptional quarterback play, and a solid defensive foundation. Their victory resonated throughout the league, setting a standard for future teams and contributing to the growing popularity of professional football.

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The 1942 NFL Championship Game, the tenth title game in the league's history, witnessed a significant upset as the underdog Washington Redskins defeated the heavily favored undefeated Chicago Bears by a score of 14-6. Played on December 13th at a sold-out Griffith Stadium in Washington, D.C., with an attendance of 36,006, the game pitted the champions of the NFL's two divisions against each other.

The Western Division champion Bears, boasting an unblemished 11-0 regular season record, were co-coached by Hunk Anderson and Luke Johnsos in the absence of George Halas, who had joined the U.S. Navy. Their offense was spearheaded by quarterback Sid Luckman. The Eastern Division champion Redskins, with a strong 10-1 record, were led by head coach Ray Flaherty and their iconic quarterback Sammy Baugh.

Despite the Bears having easily won a summer exhibition game against the Redskins, the two teams had not clashed during the regular season. Chicago entered the championship aiming for their third consecutive NFL title and were considered overwhelming favorites, with the betting line favoring them by three touchdowns. However, the Redskins, playing on their home turf, proved to be a formidable opponent.

The game's scoring began in the second quarter when the Bears' Lee Artoe returned a recovered fumble 52 yards for a touchdown, though the extra point was missed. The Redskins quickly responded later in the same quarter when Sammy Baugh connected with Wilbur Moore for a 39-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful extra point kick by Bob Masterson, giving Washington a 7-6 lead. The third quarter saw the Redskins extend their advantage with a one-yard touchdown run by Andy Farkas, again followed by a successful Masterson kick, making the score 14-6 in favor of Washington. The fourth quarter remained scoreless, securing the unexpected victory for the Redskins.

The intense anticipation for the championship was evident in the ticket sales, with the game selling out three weeks in advance and some tickets being resold for exorbitant prices. This game marked the second and final NFL title game played at Griffith Stadium and in Washington, D.C., a stark contrast to their previous meeting at the same venue two years prior, where the Bears had inflicted a historic 73-0 defeat on the Redskins.

The financial success of the sold-out game was also noteworthy, generating a record gate receipt of over $113,000. This translated to significant player shares, with each Redskin player receiving approximately $976, while each Bear earned about $639.

Adding another layer of context to the event, the NFL's annual owners' winter meeting and college player draft were held around the time of the championship game. With the United States a year into World War II and many players either in the military or facing potential conscription, a key focus of the owners' meeting was whether the league should continue operations in 1943. Ultimately, the decision was made to proceed, with the 1943 NFL draft postponed until April. The 1942 NFL Championship Game stands as a testament to the unpredictability of football and the Redskins' ability to rise to the occasion against a dominant opponent during a tumultuous period in world history.

Update

After our discussion, Mike Richman dug through his archives and found a gem. Mike interviewed a gent about 25 years ago named Clyde Shugart, a Redskins lineman from 1939-43.

Shugart had a near altercation with Bears Hall of Fame lineman George Musso in the 1942 championship, a 14–6 Redskins win. “Musso wasn’t expecting me to block him, and I had a golden opportunity to let him have it,” Shugart remembered. “Then he threatened to slug me, and we got into a discussion during a timeout. He said, ‘You know what’s going to happen?’ I said, ‘Yea, we’ll both get thrown out of the game.’ So we settled down and played football instead of throwing punches at each other.”

Thanks, Mike, for this additional info and quote!

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The latest episode in our pre-Super Bowl NFL Championships series takes us to the 1941 NFL season.

How did the mighty Chicago Bears dominate that fateful season, culminating in a title victory for the history books? What stories lie beneath the headlines of that era?

Join us as we tackle these questions and more with our special guest, NFL historian Jeff Berkes, for an inside look at a championship forged in a nation's defining moment. You won't want to miss this!

The 1941 NFL season unfolded against the backdrop of a world teetering on the brink of war, yet a familiar powerhouse continued its dominance on the gridiron. The Chicago Bears, led by the legendary George Halas, embarked on a campaign culminating in their second consecutive NFL Championship, solidifying their status as the preeminent force in professional football.

The league in 1941 consisted of ten teams, split into Eastern and Western Divisions. Each team played an eleven-game regular season schedule, vying for the top spot in their respective divisions to earn a berth in the NFL Championship Game. Resisting in the Western Division, the Bears showcased an offensive juggernaut that left opponents reeling. Their innovative "T-formation" offense, featuring a man-in-motion, proved revolutionary, baffling defenses with their speed and versatility. Quarterback Sid Luckman, a future Hall of Famer, orchestrated this attack precisely through the air and on the ground. He led a potent backfield that included the likes of Norm Standlee and George McAfee, each capable of explosive plays.

The Bears' dominance was evident in their regular-season record of 10 wins and only one loss. Their defeat came in a tight contest against their fierce rivals, the Green Bay Packers. This loss created a tie atop the Western Division standings, necessitating the first divisional playoff game in NFL history. In this highly anticipated rematch at Wrigley Field, the Bears decisively defeated the Packers 33-14, securing their place in the championship game.

Meanwhile, in the Eastern Division, the New York Giants, coached by Steve Owen, emerged as the champions with an 8-3 record. This set up a familiar championship clash, as the Bears had defeated the Giants in the 1940 title game by a staggering 73-0, the most lopsided victory in NFL history.

The 1941 NFL Championship Game was held on December 21st at Wrigley Field in Chicago, just two weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Perhaps due to the somber national mood and wartime restrictions, the attendance was a meager 13,341, the lowest ever for an NFL title game. However, the Bears were undeterred. While the final score wasn't as astronomical as the previous year, the Bears proved their superiority again, defeating the Giants 37-9.

The Bears' victory in 1941 marked their fifth NFL Championship and solidified their place as the first team in the NFL championship game era (since 1933) to win consecutive titles. Their potent offense, averaging a league-leading 36 points per game, and stout defense made them formidable opponents. The 1941 Chicago Bears were a team defined by innovation, talent, and an unwavering will to win, etching their names into the annals of NFL history as one of the league's early dynasties.

Takeaways

-The 1941 NFL Championship epitomized the American spirit during global conflict.

-The Chicago Bears demonstrated unprecedented dominance in the 1941 NFL season, shaping modern football.

-The historical significance of the championship game is intertwined with the events of Pearl Harbor.

-Innovations introduced by the Bears in 1941 permanently transformed professional football's landscape.

-In 1941, the Bears averaged 36 points per game, establishing a scoring record.

-The influence of World War II on the NFL and the Bears' dynasty cannot be overlooked.

The 1930 NFL season is a testament to professional football's gritty early days, a period marked by intense competition and the looming shadow of the Great Depression. This season, chronicled by podcasts like Pigskin Dispatch, witnessed a nail-biting race for the championship between the Green Bay Packers and the New York Giants.

The season began with both teams displaying dominance. The defending champions, Green Bay Packers, maintained an undefeated streak while the Giants were hot on their heels. A pivotal clash occurred on November 23rd at the Polo Grounds, where a crowd of 37,000 witnessed the Giants triumph, bringing their record to an impressive 11-2. However, the Giants stumbled after Thanksgiving, suffering a surprising loss to Staten Island. Green Bay capitalized, regaining their lead with a decisive victory over the Frankford Yellow Jackets. This fluctuation in standings created high drama for fans.

Also, check out our Football History Rewind Part 67 on the 1930 Pro Football Season.

The tension escalated in the final weeks of the season. A key moment occurred when the Green Bay Packers suffered a surprising loss to the Chicago Bears. The New York Giants added further pressure on Green Bay by winning against the Frankford Yellow Jackets. This NY win brought the two teams to an incredibly tight standing. The New York Giants had a 13-4 record, and the Green Bay Packers were 10-3, the winning percentage being extremely close.

The championship ultimately hinged on Green Bay's final game against the Portsmouth Spartans. The Packers needed at least a tie to secure the title. The game ended in a 6-6 tie, granting the Green Bay Packers the 1930 NFL championship with a 10-3-1 record. This season was a testament to the resilience of both teams as they navigated challenging circumstances to compete at the highest level, inspiring football fans worldwide.

The Green Bay Packers' victory in 1930 solidified their status as a dominant force in the early NFL. Key players like Verne Lewellen, Johnny Blood McNally, and Clark Hinkle were instrumental in the team's success, their contributions reverberating through the history of the sport. The Packers' ability to maintain their dominance during the onset of the Great Depression underscored the deep connection between the team and its dedicated fanbase.

The 1930 season provides valuable insights into the evolution of NFL history. Sources such as Pro-Football-Reference.com, Newspapers.com, and the Professional Football Researchers Association (PFRA) contribute to the preservation of this historical information. In an era that predated detailed statistics, scoring leaders and team-winning percentages provided the information needed to record the day's story.

In conclusion, the 1930 NFL season, with its close competition and dramatic finish, remains a captivating and significant chapter in football history. The Green Bay Packers' championship victory, achieved amidst economic hardship, speaks to the enduring spirit of the game and its ability to unite communities, underscoring the importance of this historical period in shaping the NFL we know today.

The Akron Pros, the champions of the inaugural NFL season in 1920. The challenges faced by the Akron Pros during their season, including a tight schedule and internal team issues, yet they still managed an impressive record. Listeners are taken back to the early days of the league, where the structure and organization of professional football were still in their infancy.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

The inaugural season of the American Professional Football Association (APFA), later to become the NFL, in 1920 was a chaotic experiment, a wild west of fledgling franchises grappling with the very concept of a professional league. Amidst this uncertainty, the Akron Pros emerged as the first champions, finishing the season with an impressive 8-0-3 record. However, their path to the title was far from straightforward, reflecting the league's growing pains.

The early days of professional football were riddled with challenges. Scheduling was a logistical nightmare, with teams often playing irregularly and against varying levels of competition. Player disputes were common, as the league struggled to establish consistent rules and regulations. The very structure of the league was in flux, with teams joining and disbanding throughout the season. In this turbulent environment, the Akron Pros managed to maintain consistency and secure their place in history.

A fascinating "what if" scenario highlights the precarious nature of that first season. Had a hypothetical game between the Pros and the Decatur Staleys, another strong contender, actually been played, the course of NFL history could have been drastically different. This underscores how close the championship was and how easily it could have swung the other way.

Key figures like Fritz Pollard and Paul Robeson played pivotal roles in Akron's success. Pollard, a pioneering African American player and coach, brought exceptional talent and leadership to the team. Robeson, a multi-talented athlete and activist, contributed significantly to the Pros' performance. Their presence on the team not only showcased their individual brilliance but also reflected the diverse landscape of early professional football.

Despite the excitement surrounding the nascent league, professional football faced a significant hurdle: public perception. College football reigned supreme in popularity, and the professional game was often viewed with skepticism, considered a less refined and somewhat chaotic version of its collegiate counterpart. The 1920 season and the Akron Pros' championship represented a crucial step in legitimizing professional football and paving the way for its eventual rise to national prominence.

-1920 Akron Pros Facts

-Owner Akron Exhibition Co.

-Charles Stahl

-President Frank Nied,

-Art Ranney

-Head coach Elgie Tobin

-Home field League Park

-Results

-Record 8–0–3 overall

-6–0–3 (APFA)

-Division place 1st APFA (named champions)

-Playoff finish No playoffs until 1932

The 1925 NFL season was a wild and controversial one, ultimately leading to the Chicago Cardinals being crowned champions. It was a season marked by the rise of Red Grange, the suspension of the Pottsville Maroons, and a league still finding its footing.  

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

-The Rise of Red Grange

The biggest story of the 1925 season was undoubtedly the emergence of Red Grange. The "Galloping Ghost" was a star halfback from the University of Illinois who captivated the nation with his incredible speed and elusiveness. After the college season, Grange signed with the Chicago Bears, and his presence instantly transformed the league. Huge crowds flocked to see him play, and he became a national sensation, bringing unprecedented attention to professional football.  

-The Pottsville Maroons Controversy

The Pottsville Maroons were a dominant team in 1925, boasting a 10-2 record. They even defeated the Chicago Cardinals, their main rivals, late in the season. However, a controversial decision by NFL Commissioner Joseph Carr cost them the championship. The Maroons scheduled a game against a team of former Notre Dame players in Philadelphia, which was considered to be in the territory of the Frankford Yellow Jackets. Despite warnings from Carr, the Maroons played the game, leading to their suspension from the league and the forfeiture of their right to compete for the championship.  

-The Cardinals Claim the Crown

With the Pottsville Maroons out of the picture, the Chicago Cardinals, who had finished the season with an 11-2-1 record, were declared the NFL champions. It was a bittersweet victory for the Cardinals, as they had not defeated the Maroons on the field. Owner Chris O'Brien would NOT accept the title; however, in 1933, when the Bidwell family took over ownership of the franchise, they did embrace the title, marking the franchise's first NFL championship.

-A League in Flux

The 1925 season highlighted the challenges the NFL faced in its early years. The league was still relatively young and lacked the stability and structure of later decades. Controversies like the Pottsville Maroons suspension and the constant movement of franchises were common occurrences. However, the emergence of stars like Red Grange and the growing popularity of the game were signs that professional football was on the rise.

-The Legacy of 1925

Despite the controversies and challenges, the 1925 NFL season played a significant role in the development of the league. The excitement generated by Red Grange helped to attract new fans and solidify the league's place in the American sports landscape. The lessons learned from the Pottsville Maroons incident likely contributed to future rule changes and a greater emphasis on league uniformity. While the Cardinals' championship may have come under somewhat unusual circumstances, it still stands as a testament to their strong season and their place in NFL history.

Fresh off the excitement of Super Bowl LIX, where the quest for a three-peat fell short, let's turn back the clock to a time when a team achieved that very feat – the 1931 Green Bay Packers. This era, before the Super Bowl, was a rugged and fascinating period in NFL history, and the Packers' dominance stands as a testament to their exceptional talent.

-A League in Flux:

The 1931 NFL season, the league's 12th, unfolded against the backdrop of the Great Depression. Financial hardship forced the Newark Tornadoes and Minneapolis Marines to fold, and the Frankford Yellow Jackets, champions of 1926, also succumbed to the economic pressures. This left the NFL with a mere nine teams by season's end. However, amidst the turmoil, the Cleveland Indians joined as an expansion team, and the Portsmouth Spartans emerged as a formidable force, starting with seven consecutive wins and allowing only 16 points in those games.

-The Packers' Path to Glory (and Controversy):

The Green Bay Packers, led by the legendary Curly Lambeau, were on a mission to secure their third consecutive NFL championship. They started strong, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. The season culminated in a controversial decision that ultimately crowned the Packers champions.

The Packers, with a 12-2 record, were scheduled to play the 10-3 Portsmouth Spartans. However, the Packers' brass refused to play, knowing a loss would result in a tie for the championship. The Spartans protested, but NFL Commissioner Joe Carr sided with Green Bay, awarding them the title and leaving Portsmouth with a bitter second-place finish.

The Stars of the 1931 Packers:

The Packers' success was built on a foundation of exceptional talent. Let's delve into some of the key players who contributed to their historic three-peat:

-Laverne "Lavvie" Dilweg:
A dominant defensive end, Dilweg's talent is often overlooked.
He amassed an astounding 27 career interceptions, a feat unmatched by most of his contemporaries.
As Ken Crippen of the Football Learning Academy pointed out, Dilweg was considered one of the best ends of the pre-modern era, yet he has not received the Hall of Fame recognition he deserves.

-Vern Lewellyn:
Lewellyn, the Packers' star halfback, was a crucial part of their championship runs.
Chris Willis of NFL Films highlighted Lewellyn's consistent performance, even suggesting he would have been a back-to-back MVP in 1929 and 1930.
Again, a player whose Hall-of-Fame credentials are powerful.

-Curly Lambeau:
The founder of the Packers franchise and a visionary coach.
Lambeau was instrumental in popularizing passing plays and strategic offensive schemes.
As Larry Schmitt noted, Lambeau's leadership guided the Packers to six championships, surpassing even Vince Lombardi's record.

-Cal Hubbard:
A rare athlete who excelled in both football and baseball, earning induction into both Halls of Fame.
Hubbard was a dominant force on the offensive and defensive lines, contributing to four championship teams.
George Bozeka, PFRA president, detailed Hubbard’s amazing career.

-Johnny "Blood" McNally is a versatile player who made significant contributions.

-Mike Michalske, a Hall of Fame blocker who paved the way for the Packers' running game.

-Arnie Herber, who was in the early part of his Hall-of-Fame career.

-A Legacy Forged in Controversy and Triumph:

The 1931 season was a pivotal moment in NFL history. Though achieved amidst controversy, the Packers' three-peat solidified their place as one of the league's early dynasties. Their roster was filled with legendary players who helped shape the game.

The 1931 season was the last year in which the NFL championship was awarded without a championship game. The next year the NFL would have a championship game. The NFL would continue to evolve, but the legacy of the 1931 Green Bay Packers remains a testament to their remarkable talent and enduring spirit.

The 1928 NFL season, though lacking the modern spectacle of today's game, was a pivotal chapter in the league's formative years. At its heart lies the story of the Providence Steam Roller, a now-defunct franchise that defied expectations to claim the NFL championship. This season, as explored in a detailed podcast, sheds light on the league's early struggles, the absence of a structured championship game, and the unique circumstances that shaped the Steam Roller's triumph.

Want to catch up on our series of posts and podcasts on Pre-Super Bowl NFL Champions? Check it out here NFL Champions.

Unlike the contemporary NFL, where a playoff system culminates in the Super Bowl, the 1928 season determined its champion based solely on regular-season records. This absence of a formal championship game underscores the era's evolving nature, where organizational structures were still being refined. The Providence Steam Roller, entering their fourth NFL season, had demonstrated steady improvement, and in 1928, they reached their zenith.

The podcast narrative meticulously traces the Steam Roller's journey, highlighting pivotal matches that ultimately secured their championship. Critical victories against key rivals propelled them to the top of the standings, showcasing their resilience and strategic prowess. The detailed accounts of these games provide a window into the raw, unpolished football of the late 1920s, a stark contrast to the sophisticated strategies of today.

However, the Steam Roller's story is not merely one of on-field success. The podcast delves into the team's personal challenges, revealing a poignant tale of resilience in the face of tragedy. Amidst their championship pursuit, the players coped with personal losses, demonstrating their unwavering determination and camaraderie. This emotional depth adds a human dimension to their victory, transforming it from a mere sporting achievement into a testament to the team's spirit.

The inclusion of Greg Tranter, a guest expert on the Providence Steam Roller, significantly enriches the podcast. Tranter's insights provide valuable context, offering a deeper understanding of the franchise's history and its place within the broader landscape of early NFL. His expertise illuminates the nuances of the 1928 season, adding layers of historical accuracy and detail.

The narrative emphasizes the importance of historical context in appreciating the NFL's evolution. By examining the 1928 season, listeners gain a greater understanding of the league's humble beginnings and the challenges it faced. The Providence Steam Roller's championship serves as a reminder of the league's diverse history, where teams of varying sizes and resources competed on a level playing field.

The 1928 Providence Steam Roller season stands as a unique achievement, as they are the last defunct team to win an NFL championship. Their record of only one loss is a testament to their dominance that year. This narrative serves as a critical examination of the NFL’s past, and the unique circumstances that shaped the league we know today.

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The 1933 NFL Championship, the first official title game pitting division winners against each other, didn't just appear out of thin air. Its roots lie in a series of quirky, rule-bending, and downright smelly events that transformed professional football.

-Before Divisions: The 1932 Tiebreaker and the Indoor Experiment

Prior to 1933, the NFL championship was awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. But even that system had its eccentricities. In 1932, the Chicago Bears and the Portsmouth Spartans found themselves locked in a virtual tie, with identical 6-1 records. However, ties weren't factored into the standings at the time. This led to an impromptu playoff game, an indoor affair at Chicago Stadium, home of the Blackhawks.

This wasn't the first time the Bears had attempted an indoor game. In 1930, they'd played an exhibition against the Chicago Cardinals for charity. The weather was brutal, forcing them to move indoors. To pull it off they had to unfreeze the hockey rink and bring in dirt. The game was a comedy of errors, with players colliding with the rink's wooden boards and Ernie Nevers even hitting the scoreboard. However, it was a success and a few thousand fans attended.

Back to 1932, the Bears and Spartans faced off in a game that was supposed to be outdoors. Due to terrible weather, George Halas decided to move the game indoors again. This time, the circus had just left, leaving behind a layer of dirt and, shall we say, "elephant contributions." The stench was so bad that some Bears players reportedly got sick.

The game itself was played on a modified field, with a narrower width and a unique rule to simulate a 100-yard field. The Bears won, thanks to a controversial jump pass from Bronko Nagurski to Red Grange. This indoor "playoff" game, though not officially a championship, planted the seed for change.

-The 1933 Revolution: Divisions, Rules, and a Landmark Game

The NFL, recognizing the excitement generated by the 1932 playoff, decided to implement a divisional system. The ten teams were split into Eastern and Western Divisions, with the division winners meeting in a championship game. This mirrored the successful World Series format in baseball.

The 1933 season also saw significant rule changes. The league decided to create its own rule book, diverging from the college game. This included:

-Hash marks: To keep the ball in the center of the field.

-Forward pass: Legal from anywhere behind the line of scrimmage.

-Goal posts: Moved to the goal line to encourage field goals.

-The inaugural championship game featured the New York Giants (11-3) and the Chicago Bears (12-1). The Bears roster boasted six Hall of Famers, including Grange and Nagurski. The Giants, coached by Steve Owen, had a roster filled with colorful nicknames like "Red," "Tiny," and "Kink."

The game itself was a back-and-forth thriller. The Bears' kicker, Jack Manders, was instrumental, kicking three field goals. The Giants fought back, with key touchdowns from Red Badgro and Ken Strong. The game ended with a wild lateral play, resulting in a Bill Carr touchdown, giving the Bears a 23-21 victory.

The 1933 NFL Championship was a landmark event. It showcased the new rules, the excitement of divisional play, and the growing popularity of professional football. It was a pivotal moment in the league's history, setting the stage for the modern NFL and its eventual rise to prominence.